The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced a partnership with the Abia State Government and other stakeholders to enhance food production and supply across the country, aiming to reduce dependence on food imports.

According to the ministry, Nigeria possesses vast and fertile arable land capable of producing sufficient food for its growing population while also supporting agricultural exports.

The Abia State Coordinator of the ministry, Aloysius Chibuzor Mba, disclosed this in Umuahia while delivering the ministry’s address during the 2025 World Food Day celebration in the state.

Mba highlighted several challenges hindering food production and nutrition, including conflicts in farming communities, rising inflation, the impact of climate change, and poor infrastructure.

He added that the ministry has made significant investments in key crops such as cassava and maize to reduce imports, strengthen agricultural value chains, and improve overall food supply.

Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of farmers and enhancing the livelihood of residents.

In his remarks, the Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, revealed that the state has developed the Abia Agriculture Dynamic Database System to digitally register all farmers, their farms, and agricultural activities.

He further noted that the ministry is taking steps to improve nutrition, support farmers against climate-related challenges, and minimize post-harvest losses.